Opposition to New Business Kicks Off Rosedale Council Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Rural Municipality of Rosedale started with a series of public hearings for building projects around the municipality, including a contentious proposal to expand a business in the village of Riding Mountain. Residents were concerned  about the potential noise and smoke, as well as a drop in property values, related to a machining and welding shop in among residential properties. Several spoke out at the meeting and others emailed their concerns. The council tabled their decision on whether to allow the expansion of the business to the January meeting.

The other hearings did not have any attendees present to speak for or against them.

The afternoon portion of the meeting was dominated by a presentation regarding recommendations for a new waste disposal site. The council is currently looking at several options in terms of location and capacity allowing for landfill, recycling, and setback area from other lands and roads. Several new regulations have been introduced since the last time the municipality went through this process. Currently, one of the main considerations aside from compliance with regulations is future growth and the potential need for additional landfill cells.

The municipality reviewed proposals and accepted an offer for their old fire truck that had just been replaced this fall. The shop report reviewed repairs needed and completed for grading and snow removal equipment as well as community requests for property access roads and other community concerns. Other business included routine contract renewals, snow clearing, and some logistics for the next municipal election.

The meeting closed with some good news for area residents. The Council allocated grant funding to several local organisations including halls, curling clubs, and recreational groups. Each councillor was able to allocate grants from their discretionary amounts.

This is the first time that the RM of Rosedale has allowed their meeting to be recorded and rebroadcast.